As an youngster growing up in Perry, N.Y. in 1957, Lakin played Pop Warner football and was among the early followers of a rapidly-growing Little League program.

Moving to Miami in 1960, he became involved in the leadership aspect of Little League, adopting similar roles in Cocoa Beach and Melbourne before moving to St. Cloud in 1973, where his son, Trevor, began his Little League career.

Watching his son play triggered Lakin's desire to become active again. He hasn't quit since, helping out in Majors, Seniors and Big League programs. He has chalked up three league championship pennants and coached three St. Cloud all-star teams.

In 1985, Lakin took the 1984 last place-finisher, Odd Fellows Lodge, to the St. Cloud Senior League championship. ''I guess of all the teams I've coached, this is the team I'm most proud of,'' he said.

Taking league doormats from the outhouse to the penthouse is old hat for Lakin. He thrives on challenge.

''The Odd Fellows have sponsored a team for 10 years and this is the first year they've won a championship. Looking back, it seems I've always been able to take a team that hasn't done very well and turn it into a champion.''

In 1980, Lakin coached 1979's cellar-finishing Badcock Furniture team to the sponsor's first Senior League pennant.

Lakin's best asset is his unselfishness. When it comes to time, Lakin's belongs to the community's youth.

''The kids need a healthy outlet. I like to see them participating in an activity that keeps them off the street where I can teach them an athletic trade,'' he said. ''I'm paid back when I see them doing well later in life.'' A strict disciplinarian, Lakin stresses teamwork and sportsmanship to teams, ''things they need to get through life. I don't let them get down on each other.''